Perspectives November 8, 2019

4 Place-Making Trends for World Urbanism Day

Our top strategies for creating healthy, livable communities
Brandon Avenue
A vibrant living-learning space that is uniquely UVA with its embrace of working landscapes.
University of Virginia, Brandon Avenue

Happy World Urbanism Day! Also known as World Town Planning Day, celebrated on November 8, this international holiday was founded in 1949 by the late Professor Carlos Maria della Paolera to advance interest in planning.

To commemorate the day, we’re sharing four urban design and planning trends that are transforming the world around us.

Brandon Avenue transformed into a “Green Street” – a one-way loop with landscaped bioretention areas and gathering spaces in the center.
University of Virginia, Brandon Avenue
1. Resilience

Places that are designed, planned, and organized for resilience have a significantly greater chance of weathering physical trauma and social provocations. They’re also much more likely to regenerate and prosper afterward. Resilience starts with people. The healthier we are, the more resilient we are. We’re helping institutions partner with their communities to plan resilient health districts that feature green infrastructure, sustainable buildings, and health-supporting amenities – all within reach.

2. Well-being

Cities around the world are transforming urban life by investing in public health, strong communities, a thriving and sustainable environment, and the local economy. We are committed to a holistic approach to planning and policy making that puts well-being first.

The Baton Rouge Health District creates a coalition for improving efficiency and a shared platform for community health initiatives.
Baton Rouge Health District, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Northtown Library and Housing combines the amenities of the local library with 44 affordable apartments for seniors to encourage life-long learning.
Northtown Library and Housing, Chicago, Illinios
3. Affordable Housing

Demand is outstripping supply, with not enough new housing being built and too few existing affordable units preserved. We are dedicated to modernizing and getting creative with local land use policies, including zoning and permitting, with a focus on re-balancing housing supply and demand for everyone.

4. Future of Mobility

It is critical that we take the initiative to understand and shape the future of mobility in a positive way. By focusing on people instead of technology, and acting immediately, we are optimistic that future mobility technologies can support a more livable future city.

The master plan will transform the station area into a regional intermodal transportation hub.
Sacramento Valley Station Masterplan, Sacramento, California